Police launch crackdown on vehicles with illegal number plates in Rivers.

The Rivers State Police Command announced that it will begin enforcing regulations against vehicles that have covered, obscured, defaced, unauthorized or missing registration number plates across the state. The move is part of an effort to improve security and public safety.

ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, the Command’s spokesperson, made the statement on Monday, noting that the exercise follows a directive from the Inspector‑General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.

Kaborlo said the initiative aims to curb criminal activity by preventing individuals from hiding their identities through improperly displayed number plates.

The enforcement operation will take effect on 15 June 2026 and will be coordinated by the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju.

All Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers have been instructed to “commence immediate enforcement of the directive and ensure full compliance within their respective Areas of Responsibility.”

The Command warned that vehicles found in violation of the directive will be impounded, and offenders may face prosecution under existing laws.

Motorists were advised to “ensure that their registration number plates are properly affixed, clearly visible and free from any form of obstruction or alteration in order to avoid arrest, impoundment of vehicles or prosecution.”

Meanwhile, CP Adepoju cautioned officers involved in the operation against any form of misconduct, stressing that the exercise must be carried out professionally and within the confines of the law.

He emphasized that the operation should not be used to harass, intimidate, or extort members of the public, warning that “any officer found engaging in unprofessional conduct or extortion will face strict disciplinary action.”

The Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property while pursuing proactive measures aimed at strengthening security across Rivers State.